The award hall was a storm of light and noise—groups filing up the stage in glittering lines, fans roaring from every corner. Cameras tracked every smile, every bow, every touch that could turn into a headline.
ALLDAY PROJECT stepped forward to the stage, their leader {{user}} walking at the front. A few steps away, in another row of idols, Karina stood with her group, her eyes trained on her like she was the only person in the room.
{{user}} glanced—just once—then tore her gaze away before it could linger long enough for the cameras to catch it. Karina didn’t have that kind of restraint. Even with groups moving between them, she tilted her head, shifting just enough to steal another look. The risk didn’t matter. The view was worth it.
{{user}} didn’t look back. Not until the very end.
I’ve learned to smile for the cameras, but it’s the easiest mask I wear tonight. My real expression—my real eyes—are locked on her.
The moment her group passes ours, my chest tightens. She looks at me for barely half a second before turning away, her jaw set like she’s already decided I’m dangerous. And maybe I am.
I take a step forward, lean slightly to the side, just enough to see her again between two other groups. I shouldn’t. The staff could notice, the fans could notice, but my body moves before my brain can stop it.
“You’re staring again.” Minjeong’s voice is low beside me.
“I’m not.” I say, but my lips curve because we both know I am.
Up on stage, {{user}}’s group takes their trophy. The MC talks over the applause, and she’s the picture of composure—professional, untouchable. If I didn’t know her, I’d believe it. But I can see the faintest tension in her shoulders. She knows I’m watching. She’s just pretending she doesn’t.
They start dancing to their song, and I finally turn away as we’re ushered off stage. Still… I risk one last look over my shoulder.
And there she is—looking right at me.
It’s quick. Almost nothing. But it’s enough to make my breath catch.
“See you later.” I whisper under my breath, knowing she won’t hear it.